Leading with Heart: Ana Nebel on Youth Activism and Feminist Leadership

Our next in the Bluestockings Society Interviews series is Ana Nebel, a remarkable young leader and changemaker. Ana is the founder and president of Leo Club Dione, a volunteer organization that’s part of the global Lions Clubs network. Under her leadership, the club has initiated impactful fundraisers and supported vulnerable causes with dedication and heart.

Ana represents a powerful intersection of youth, leadership, compassion, and activism. Her work in mobilizing people toward meaningful change reflects the values we hold dear at Bluestockings Society: community, equity, and purpose-driven action. We’re honored to share her voice and story with you.

How It Started

Bluestockings Society: Ana, you’ve founded and led Leo Club Dione at a young age. What inspired you to create a volunteer group, and what drives your commitment to service?

Ana Nebel: Honestly, it began with frustration. I kept noticing how many issues - poverty, educational gaps, environmental damage - were being talked about, but rarely acted upon by youth. I wanted to stop waiting and start doing. That’s why I gathered some friends and formed Leo Club Dione. Our first fundraiser was small, but I still remember the look of gratitude on the faces of those we helped. That moment told me: impact doesn’t require scale, it requires heart.

Ana, with her team of volunteers, is planting flowers at a school for children with disabilities

Feminism and Volunteerism

Bluestockings Society: How do you see feminism reflected in the work of volunteerism and community leadership?

Ana Nebel: So much of what we do - organizing, nurturing, advocating - is deeply feminist, even if it isn’t always called that. Feminism isn’t just about protest signs or politics, but also care, justice, and equity. And that’s exactly what volunteer work stands for.

Many of the causes we take on - gender-based violence, lack of access to healthcare, and education for girls - highlight systemic inequalities. By responding to those needs, we’re practicing feminism in action.

Are girls encouraged to lead?

Bluestockings Society: Do you feel young women are encouraged enough to take initiative in civic spaces? What would you change?

Ana Nebel: We’re encouraged, but with conditions. Girls are often told to help, not lead. When we show ambition or assertiveness, we’re met with criticism instead of support. That creates a gap where many girls doubt themselves before they even try.

I’d change the way society supports young women. We should stop waiting for them to "prove themselves" and start investing in their ideas right away. Provide mentorship, funding, platforms - real opportunities.

Ana (right) awards prizes at the community marathon she helped organize through a youth-led fundraiser

A message to girls who want to make a difference

Bluestockings Society: If you could give one message to other young women who feel they’re “too small” to lead or make a difference, what would it be?

Ana Nebel: You’re never too small. Leadership doesn’t start with a title, but with courage. And courage is built through small steps.

If the world feels overwhelming, focus on what moves you. Is it injustice? Inequality? Then ask yourself: What is one thing I can do today? That’s where it begins. You don’t need a big following. You don’t need permission. All you need is heart, and that, you already have.

There will be people who underestimate you. Use that as fuel. Keep showing up. Keep learning. And keep going.